Life & Death
Unique artwork featuring a bird skull and flower
$350.00
Out of stock
The idea for this painting originally came to me back in 2020. It was the middle of quarantine, and I was challenging my boredom with some Archery in my step dad's backyard. When I was walking back to my shooting spot after collecting my arrows, I noticed this little bird skull hanging out in the grass. I picked up and put it in the windowsill, intending to keep it; in fact, I still have it to this day. Later, after another arrow collecting, I picked a dandelion to give to my mom, and I set it next to the skull. And thus the reference picture was born! I started painting the background the very same day and even got the layout of the dandelion done the following day. However, at the time, I did not possess the skills I needed to paint the realism I was trying for. So I abandoned this painting saying that one day when I'm good enough I'll finish it. Time went on, and two years later, in 2022, I picked it back up again. My aunt was taking me out to do my high-school graduation pictures, and I brought this painting and a pencil out as a prop. I ended up sketching out the entire bird skull that day between moving from place to place to find just the right spot.
And then I set it up to paint at home. Where it sat, and sat, and sat. I was still too scared that I would mess it up when it came to painting it. Fast forward to today, in 2025, and I have finally finished this painting. It wasn't because I suddenly had new confidence in my skill or because I had just gotten that good. I had finally gotten so worn down by myself with all the unfinished projects I had because "I wasn't good enough yet." So I set this painting up, and over the days, I shaded it with pencil, and one weekend, I finally took the nose dive after spending hours on YouTube, studying how other oil painters painted things in realism. All I had to do was take the plunge
As the artist, creating this captivating painting has been an exhilarating journey, encapsulated in a 16" x 20" format with a depth of approximately 1.5". Working with oil paint on high-quality gallery canvas allowed me to explore the rich, vibrant colors and textures synonymous with this medium. Each brushstroke tells a story, revealing the meticulous care and attention to detail infused into the piece. I aimed to strike a balance between light and shadow, inviting viewers to engage with the harmonious composition. This artwork serves not only as a stunning focal point but also as a catalyst for contemplation and emotional reflection, embodying my unique vision and creative expression. It is my hope that art enthusiasts and collectors who encounter this piece feel a connection to the timeless beauty of oil craftsmanship that I have endeavored to capture.